Talks
Radical Effects of the Resurrection
by John Piper
Main points
Without the Resurrection Our Lives Are Pitiable
Piper begins with 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 to show that if Christ has not been raised our preaching is in vain, our faith is futile, we remain in our sins, and we are of all people most to be pitied for the risky life we have chosen.
Christian Hope Frees Us to Embrace Suffering
Piper explains that the joy Paul speaks of is the joy of hope in the resurrection, not a string of earthly successes, which is why he could freely choose risk, hardship, and self-denial for the sake of love instead of maximizing comfort.
Our Sufferings Present Christ's Afflictions to Others
Drawing from Colossians 1:24, Piper argues that in our own flesh we fill up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions by carrying them visibly and personally to people and peoples so they can see and receive what Christ accomplished.
Joy in Suffering Makes Us Salt and Light
Piper points to Matthew 5 to show that rejoicing in persecution for the sake of the coming reward reveals the reality of resurrection hope and becomes the tangy salt and bright light that the world cannot explain any other way.
Key passages
1 Corinthians 15:12-19
This is the main text Piper reads to show that without resurrection our faith collapses and our costly obedience becomes foolish.
1 Corinthians 15:32
Piper quotes this to contrast the normal path of maximizing earthly pleasures with the resurrection-shaped choice to suffer.
Colossians 1:24
Piper centers his argument here, showing that our sufferings transfer Christ's afflictions in a personal way to the church so they accomplish their designed work.
